I Had To Know

Once I learned that I had a brother somewhere out "there", I just had to find and know him. I had no clue where to start, but my friend had a computer and that seemed like a likely place to look.

It wasn't long and we found the website for the ICARE, the Wisconsin Adoptee - Birth Family Registry. We filled out my registration and prayed it would not just lay there. Shortly thereafter, Diane responded to it and said this was a search they could do. I couldn't say yes, fast enough.

Mary started my search and in two short weeks, it was completed. My friend and I arranged to meet Mary and discuss the search findings and gather advice in how to contact Bill. (I had to get use to a new name for him).

Little did I know that Mary had already contacted Bill to see if he was receptive to meeting his birth family. And since he was, she arranged for him to be at the same meeting. She told my friend not to tell me he would be there, because she knew I would never be able to stand the ride and would be a basket case by the time I arrived.

So, moments before we entered the restaurant, My friend said, Bill is waiting inside to meet you with Mary. My tears of joy shook my body. I went in and walked to the table to meet my brother. It was a hug of "Welcome Home', and I am "Thrilled to meet you!" all in one. We talked and got acquainted and he followed us back to our home town to meet his birth mother. What a night that was, as the hugging continued and the tears ran rampant. But, oh the joy we all felt. It was wonderful!

Bill was worried about his sister and how she would feel, with him being reunited with his birth family. As a result of our reunion, Bill's adoptive sister registered with ICARE. Her birth mother was already registered. ICARE was able to put them together instantly. Their adoptive father was happy for them and we all attended his birthday party the following week. He welcomed us into his family too. Thanks to ICARE, two reunions took place within days of each other.

~Fay